Replace worn Tacoma tie rod ends with 555 (Sankei) or Toyota OEM units; 555 is the same factory supplier as OEM at roughly half the price. Torque outer ends to 67 ft-lbs and count the threads when removing the old ones to preserve alignment.
The Tacoma uses an inner tie rod that threads into the steering rack and an outer tie rod end that attaches to the steering knuckle. Both wear. The outer tie rod end is the one most owners replace first because its ball joint develops play at 80,000-150,000 miles depending on mileage in dirt and salt exposure. Inner tie rods last longer but eventually develop play that you'll feel as on-center wander and a clunking sensation when crossing rough pavement.
The verdict on parts: 555 (Sankei) is what you want unless you have an OEM-or-bust religion. 555 is the actual factory supplier for Toyota inner tie rods on Tacomas and 4Runners. The 555 box and the Toyota box contain functionally the same part. Pay the Toyota markup if you want the Toyota box for warranty reasons; pay for 555 if you want the same part for less. Stay away from no-name imports from chain auto stores — many use looser tolerances on the ball stud and develop play within 20,000 miles.
Moog is also acceptable for Tacoma tie rods, particularly the problem-solver designs that have a grease fitting. Detroit Axle and TRQ have mixed track records — fine for daily drivers, less ideal for trucks running 33s and up.
A critical detail for the outer replacement: count the threads showing on the inner tie rod before removing the old outer, or measure from a fixed point to the lock nut. The new outer needs to be threaded on to the exact same depth or your toe alignment will be off and you'll burn the front tires. An alignment is recommended after any tie rod work, but a careful thread-count measurement gets you home safely and lets you drive to the alignment shop without dragging the tire sideways.
Tacomas pull the right side outer tie rod first more often than the left because of cambered roads and the way the steering geometry loads. If only one side is bad, replace both anyway — the other side is on a similar timeline and you don't want this job again in six months.
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| 555 (Sankei) Outer Tie Rod End | 555 / Sankei | ~$38 |
| 555 (Sankei) Inner Tie Rod | 555 / Sankei | ~$45 |
| Toyota OEM Outer Tie Rod End | Toyota | ~$85 |
| Toyota OEM Inner Tie Rod Assembly | Toyota | ~$110 |
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.